Australian soldier dies in Afghanistan

An Australian Special Forces soldier serving in the Australian Defence Force Headquarters in Kabul has died in what is believed to be a non-combat related incident on Tuesday, 1 July 2014.

The soldier’s colleagues found him in an administration building with a gunshot wound around 2 pm local time.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, said the soldier’s death did not appear to be combat related, however, ADF personnel had secured the site for Coalition military police to collect evidence to allow the Australian Defence Force Investigative Service to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“On behalf of the Australian Defence Force I offer my condolences to the soldier’s family.

“He was a highly qualified and well respected Special Forces soldier.

“His death will impact the nation, and we will do all we can to support his family, friends and colleagues through the difficult days ahead,” ACM Binskin said.

The soldier, from the Sydney-based 2nd Commando Regiment, was evacuated to the Role 2 medical facility in Kabul where he underwent emergency medical treatment.

Sadly, the soldier’s injuries were too severe and he later died surrounded by his mates.

Army has notified the soldier’s family and is providing them with support and assistance.

The soldier’s family has asked that his name and other personal details not be released at this time.

Defence requests that media respect their wishes and privacy.

“It is critical that we let this investigation take its course, to examine the evidence and establish the facts rather than to speculate about the details or circumstances surrounding the incident,” ACM Binskin said.

“A Psychological Support Team will deploy to Kabul to provide support to members of the soldier’s unit.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the soldier’s family and friends as we prepare to bring him home,” he said.